Parlor concerts and two special events coming up worth considering in nearby Hillsborough, NC

February 24 Winter Friday Mardi Gras - from the Historic Hillsborough website: "Hillsborough will look more like the French Quarter of New Orleans on the Winter Friday before Fat Tuesday. Well, almost. The evening-long event will kick off at 7:00 p.m. with a parade. Buy a button that will get you into the Masonic Lodge for a Mardi Gras Ball at 7:30 p.m., which will include music, a costume contest, and free chicory coffee and beignets. Local restaurants and bars will participate in the festivities. This event will serve as a fundraiser for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. Start working on your costume today! Advance tickets: $20 adult, $10 child under 12. Tickets at the door: $25 adult, $12 child under 12. Advance tickets can be purchased at Callaway Jewelry/Spiral Studios (115 North Churton Street, 919‑732‑2013). Present your ticket to Callaway Jewelry/Spiral Studios to receive your button."

February 25 Revolutionary War Living History Day, 10a-4p, grounds of the circa 1790 Alexander Dickson House; from the Historic Hillsborough website: "British and Continental reenactors will demonstrate camp life during the Revolutionary War. This year’s event commemorates the 225th anniversary of General Cornwallis’ encampment in Hillsborough in February 1781. Events include marching drills, musket-firing demonstrations, open-flame cooking, and guided tours of Hillsborough’s colonial and Revolutionary sites. More information available toll-free at 877-732-7748 or 919-732-7741."